Royal Ann, also known as Napoleon and Queen Anne, is a classic yellow-blush sweet cherry of European origin, long the standard light-fleshed cherry in North America. The large fruits have pale yellow skin blushed with red and firm, sweet, pale flesh with mild flavor. It is the traditional cherry used for maraschino and brandied cherries and for canning, though it is also eaten fresh. Royal Ann is self-unfruitful and needs a pollinizer, and its light-colored fruit is very attractive to birds and prone to cracking in rain. The tree is vigorous and productive. As a parent of Rainier and a mainstay of the processing industry, Royal Ann remains historically and commercially important among light sweet cherries.
Flavor Profile
Sweet and mild with firm pale flesh; the classic cherry for maraschino, brandied, and canned use as well as fresh.
Visual Characteristics
Large pale yellow fruit blushed with red and firm light-colored flesh.
Growing Tips
Self-unfruitful; needs a pollinizer. Light fruit attracts birds and cracks in rain, so protection helps.
Where to Buy
Sourcing information coming soon. Check local nurseries and seed banks for availability.